Ralf Praises New Hockenheim Layout

German Ralf Schumacher praised the revised Hockenheim circuit after becoming one of the first men to be allowed to drive around the track that will host the German Grand Prix at the end of July.

The German track has been heavily modified, now presenting a new, shorter, design. The new Hockenheim is 2.3 kilometers shorter than last year's version, and has also been completely resurfaced.

Williams driver Schumacher had the opportunity to drive around the circuit in a touring car, and the German was pleased with the new layout.

"You now don't have to drive into the woods on senseless unending straights anymore," said Schumacher on the BMW Motorsports website. "The new circuit layout is certainly better and provides a greater challenge to the drivers.

"There are definitely two places to overtake. For one: the second corner after the start-finish line; the other is the new hair-pin. There is also a sad side to all this. After all, I did win here last year."

The circuit, which was reopened on Wednesday with a ceremony with approximately 350 guests, also incorporates a new grandstand that will allow a total of 120,000 spectators at the track.

Former Formula One driver Jean Alesi also heaped praise on the new track, labelling Hockenheim as a masterpiece that will be enjoyed both by drivers and fans alike.

"This is a masterpiece of a racetrack, which I am sure both drivers and spectators will enjoy," added Alesi, now competing in the German DTM championship. "The new part of the track offers everything a Formula One car needs for passing manoeuvres. First they approach the corner with more than 300 km/h, then they have to slow down to about 80 km/h.

"The corner is wide enough to allow different lines. This is exemplary and I expect an exciting German Grand Prix."